Agastya was a great sage. He remained celibate all his life and spent his time in deep meditation.
One day he found some ghosts hanging from some branches of a tree with their head facing down. The sage asked them who they were. They replied. “Son, we are your forefathers. We are stuck here in this condition because of you. Only when you produce children we get release from this bondage and reach the world above”.
Lopamudra
The king of Vidarbha had a daughter by name Lopamudra. She was exceptionally beautiful and of excellent character. Sage Agastya heard about the princess and approached the king for his daughter’s hand in marriage.
The king was in two minds. He was reluctant to give his darling daughter to a sage living in forest. At the same time, he feared the wrath of the powerful sage. Lopamudra sensed the dilemma of her father. She told the king. “Father, do not worry on my account. I shall gladly be the wife of this sage”.
Thus, Agastya got the pretty princess of Vidarbha as wife. He asked his wife to cast away all her rich clothes and precious jewellery. They were going to live in a forest where such expensive costumes would have no meaning. Lopamudra obeyed her husband without a murmur.
The two lived several years doing penance. Lopamudra took excellent care of her husband with all her heart.
No children
But, the sage was worried that his wife did not bear any children for him. He asked her for the reason. Lopamudra replied. “Dear husband, our way of life does not suit me to bear children and bring them up. If you want children, get me a decent place to live and wealth for their upbringing”. Agastya told her of his poverty. Where could he get the money for a house and other expenses?
Lopamudra reminded her husband that he had attained great powers through penance. He could get anything he wanted with that. But, the sage feared that years of penance would be wasted, if he spent them to gain material wealth. His good wife did not want him to make such a sacrifice for her sake and continued with her ascetic life.
In search of wealth
But, the sage wanted to get children badly. So, he set out begging for money. He approached a king and pleaded for help. The king replied. “Sage, I would have been only too pleased to give you anything you ask for. But, please look at my books account. See for yourself that what I collect as taxes are spent fully for the cause of people. Nothing is saved. If you insist, I will have to collect more taxes”. But, the sage did not want ordinary people burdened on account of him.
The king suggested another monarch of great wealth. The two approached the second ruler together. They got the same reply there. Then, Agastya went to a third king with the other two who was famous for his charities. But, the condition there was no different.
Then, one of the kings suggested the name of a demon (Asura) by name Ilvala who had amassed huge ill-gotten wealth. The sage decided to approach the demon and try his luck. The three kings also accompanied the sage.
Ilvala and Vatapi
Ilvala once requested a Brahmin to bless him for getting a son as powerful as Indra, the king of gods. The Brahmin refused the request right away. That made the demon angry. He wanted to take revenge on all Brahmins because one of them refused to grant him his wish.
He had a younger brother by name Vatapi. Being demons, the two had special powers. They came up with a plan to take revenge on Brahmins. Ilvala would turn his brother into a goat. He would invite any passer by, especially Brahmins, for a grand feast at his house. He would cut his brother, turned goat, into pieces and cook a delicacy with it. He would offer the guest this special meat dish. After meal he would call his brother out, “Vatapi”. His brother would respond from the belly of the visitor and come out alive in one piece. In the process the guest would be killed. The two demons, later, would enjoy a curry made of human flesh. All the valuables in the possession of the visitor would go into their treasure.
Agastya’s apetite
Agastya and the kings had heard about the trick played by the demon brothers. The kings were apprehensive. But, the sage was unnerved. As usual, Ilvala offered the special dish of goat meat. Agastya ate the dish to his fill. The kings did not touch the meat.
The meal was over and the demon was ready for the kill. He called, “Vatapi”. No reply. Probably, his brother did not hear him. “VATAPI”, called the demon aloud. Still, there was no response from the belly of the sage. By then, the elder demon was in panic. He shouted aloud looking at the belly of the sage, “VATAPI, COME OUT!”.
Sage agastya smiled and said. “Whom are you calling? If you expect anything to come out of my belly, then you are mistaken. I have digested all that I have eaten!”.
Ilvala was aghast. He played his trick once too often. Not only had he lost his brother, he now had a man in front whose power was beyond his imagination. He fell at the feet of the sage and begged for mercy for his action.
Agastya said. “What has happened has happened. We have come as we are in need of money. May be, you can help us”. Ilvala was ready to do anything to get rid of his visitors. The sage asked for enough wealth to keep his wife and his companions happy and returned the way he came.Lopamudra gave birth to a son in due course. Agastya could, thus, bring salvation to his ancestors through his son.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Happy ending
Damayanti was now certain that the charioteer of Rituparna who came assuming the name of Bahuka was none other than her husband, Nala. She did not know, as yet, how the Nishadha king managed to appear so completely different. She also needed permission from her parents before confronting her husband directly.
She went to her mother and said. “Mother, I have tested the charioteer thoroughly. There is no doubt in my mind that he is Nala. I need to find out why and how he is in such a disguise. Please speak to father about it. I need to have a long chat with my husband and get a few missing details”.
The re-union
The queen got the necessary nod from her husband. Then, Damayanti went to the place where Bahuka was staying. The confidence she gained through her clever tests that the charioteer was indeed Nala in disguise did not prepare her for the shock of meeting some one who looked so different. The person who was supposed to be the handsome Nala appeared with matted hair and wearing saffron clothes. He looked dirty and was ugly beyond description. Yet, she took courage and asked. “I am told that you call yourself Bahuka. Have you met my Nala who abandoned me in forest? Have I done any harm to him in my childhood? Did I not choose him in marriage ignoring all other suitors, including the ones from heaven? Did he not swear in front of fire at marriage that he would take care of me?”
Nala could not conceal his real identity any longer. He replied. “Try to understand that it was not my free will that worked when I gambled away all my possessions. I was not myself when I left you behind in the forest and disappeared. The cruel Kali had possessed me in revenge for your marrying me. But, that rascal of Kali was all along being tormented inside me by your curse. He, finally, had to leave me completely when I learnt the secret of dice from king Rituparna”.
Nala continued. “I came with the desire to see you just once. Your messengers are all over the world inviting kings for your second marriage. I also came to find out how you could even think of such a course of action”.
To that accusation Damayanti replied. “Please do not mistake me. The talk of my second Swayamvara was a mere ploy to get you here. No one other than you would have managed to cover the distance of eight hundred miles ( 100 Yojanas) in a day. I swear that I speak the truth”. A loud voice was heard from heaven at that very instant. “It is true that your chaste wife has not erred, in thought, speech or action”. This was followed by gods playing on divine drums (Dundubhi) and showering flowers on the pair by way of blessing.
Nala was pleased to learn the truth. He took out the cloth gifted by the serpent Karkotaka and wore it around him. Then, Damayanti saw the original form of her handsome husband and rushed to his outstretched arms.
The two exchanged their stories following their separation in the forest. The sorrows each suffered were washed away in the happy tears of their new found union.
A Grand royal welcome
Nala and Damayanti spent that night together and went to meet the king next morning. Bhima was greatly pleased to receive Nala appearing in his old radiant form. News passed around the kingdom that Nala has returned from his exile. The citizens of Vidarbha were overjoyed with the news. They decorated the streets and came in large numbers to receive the illustrious king who married their princess. Nala and Damayanti received the citizens graciously.
Nala went to Rituparna with Damayanti next. He tried to apologize to the king for any of his lapses while under his service. The large hearted king of Ayodhya cut him short and spared no words to appreciate the years the two spent happily together. Rituparna did not forget to bless the couple for a long and happy married life.
Back to his own country
Nala lived happily in the company of Damayanti in her father’s kingdom for a few days. Then, he decided that it was time for him to return to his own land. He took leave of his in-laws and drove his own chariot carried by his favourite horses to Nishadha taking Damayanti and the children with him. He went to Pushkara and said. “Brother, I have earned enough wealth while in exile. I offer all that, including myself, as stake and challenge you to a fresh game of dice. I want you to wager on the entire kingdom including your own life. If you refuse, then you should meet me in a duel. I am afraid that you have to choose between the two”.
Pushkara showed surprise to find his brother back. He was happy to play and was sure that he would win again. The two played and this time, to Pushkara’s dismay, he lost.
Nala said. “Brother, now the entire kingdom and even your life are at my disposal. I can do anything that I want with you. But, I do not blame you for what was done to me in the past. I do not want to punish you for it. You may take half the kingdom that is due to you and go”. With those words Nala sent Pushkara away and ruled his land as an ideal king for long, long years. He lived happily in the company of Damayanti and the children.
The sage, Brihadasva, concluded telling the story of Nala to Yudhishthira with this happy note.
She went to her mother and said. “Mother, I have tested the charioteer thoroughly. There is no doubt in my mind that he is Nala. I need to find out why and how he is in such a disguise. Please speak to father about it. I need to have a long chat with my husband and get a few missing details”.
The re-union
The queen got the necessary nod from her husband. Then, Damayanti went to the place where Bahuka was staying. The confidence she gained through her clever tests that the charioteer was indeed Nala in disguise did not prepare her for the shock of meeting some one who looked so different. The person who was supposed to be the handsome Nala appeared with matted hair and wearing saffron clothes. He looked dirty and was ugly beyond description. Yet, she took courage and asked. “I am told that you call yourself Bahuka. Have you met my Nala who abandoned me in forest? Have I done any harm to him in my childhood? Did I not choose him in marriage ignoring all other suitors, including the ones from heaven? Did he not swear in front of fire at marriage that he would take care of me?”
Nala could not conceal his real identity any longer. He replied. “Try to understand that it was not my free will that worked when I gambled away all my possessions. I was not myself when I left you behind in the forest and disappeared. The cruel Kali had possessed me in revenge for your marrying me. But, that rascal of Kali was all along being tormented inside me by your curse. He, finally, had to leave me completely when I learnt the secret of dice from king Rituparna”.
Nala continued. “I came with the desire to see you just once. Your messengers are all over the world inviting kings for your second marriage. I also came to find out how you could even think of such a course of action”.
To that accusation Damayanti replied. “Please do not mistake me. The talk of my second Swayamvara was a mere ploy to get you here. No one other than you would have managed to cover the distance of eight hundred miles ( 100 Yojanas) in a day. I swear that I speak the truth”. A loud voice was heard from heaven at that very instant. “It is true that your chaste wife has not erred, in thought, speech or action”. This was followed by gods playing on divine drums (Dundubhi) and showering flowers on the pair by way of blessing.
Nala was pleased to learn the truth. He took out the cloth gifted by the serpent Karkotaka and wore it around him. Then, Damayanti saw the original form of her handsome husband and rushed to his outstretched arms.
The two exchanged their stories following their separation in the forest. The sorrows each suffered were washed away in the happy tears of their new found union.
A Grand royal welcome
Nala and Damayanti spent that night together and went to meet the king next morning. Bhima was greatly pleased to receive Nala appearing in his old radiant form. News passed around the kingdom that Nala has returned from his exile. The citizens of Vidarbha were overjoyed with the news. They decorated the streets and came in large numbers to receive the illustrious king who married their princess. Nala and Damayanti received the citizens graciously.
Nala went to Rituparna with Damayanti next. He tried to apologize to the king for any of his lapses while under his service. The large hearted king of Ayodhya cut him short and spared no words to appreciate the years the two spent happily together. Rituparna did not forget to bless the couple for a long and happy married life.
Back to his own country
Nala lived happily in the company of Damayanti in her father’s kingdom for a few days. Then, he decided that it was time for him to return to his own land. He took leave of his in-laws and drove his own chariot carried by his favourite horses to Nishadha taking Damayanti and the children with him. He went to Pushkara and said. “Brother, I have earned enough wealth while in exile. I offer all that, including myself, as stake and challenge you to a fresh game of dice. I want you to wager on the entire kingdom including your own life. If you refuse, then you should meet me in a duel. I am afraid that you have to choose between the two”.
Pushkara showed surprise to find his brother back. He was happy to play and was sure that he would win again. The two played and this time, to Pushkara’s dismay, he lost.
Nala said. “Brother, now the entire kingdom and even your life are at my disposal. I can do anything that I want with you. But, I do not blame you for what was done to me in the past. I do not want to punish you for it. You may take half the kingdom that is due to you and go”. With those words Nala sent Pushkara away and ruled his land as an ideal king for long, long years. He lived happily in the company of Damayanti and the children.
The sage, Brihadasva, concluded telling the story of Nala to Yudhishthira with this happy note.
Saturday, February 24, 2007
The second marriage
Bahuka held the reins expertly and the horses galloped fast. It appeared to Rituparna that they were flying in the air. The other charioteer was seated next to Bahuka. He wondered who this Bahuka was, being so good with the horses. Was he Matalai, the charioteer of Indra? Or was he Nala?
Exchange of knowledge
The air rushed past him with such a force that the king found even breathing difficult. Suddenly, the garment which he wore around his chest flew off. He asked Bahuka to stop immediately so that he could fetch it. Bahuka said, “Your Excellency! Your garment is behind us by eight or ten miles by now”.
Rituparna was thrilled finding his horses galloping at unbelievable speed. He wanted to impress Bahuka with his own learning. He said. “Bahuka, look at that tree far in front of us. I can tell you exactly how many leaves it has”. Then, he gave the number. He asked Bahuka to stop the chariot when they reached near it. When they stopped the king said. “Now you break that particular branch and count the leaves on it. You multiply what you get by the number of branches. You shall arrive at my figure”. Bahuka was surprised that the king was absolutely right. He wanted to learn how he did it. In exchange he promised to teach the king his knowledge of horses.
Rituparna said. “I did my calculation using the science called Akshahridaya or the secret of dice. I shall teach you also how you can apply it in the game of dice. Once you know the secret there will be none who can beat you in that game”. Nala was, no doubt, interested. He remembered the words of the serpent, Karkotaka.
(Indian Statisticians observe that the principles of Statistics and Probability theory lie behind the science of dice as king Rituparna stated it. It is the basic theory of averages which the king applied. Of course, the theory of Probability plays a big role in the game of dice).
Bahuka started the chariot with renewed speed. The two, king and his charioteer, then taught each other their respective area of knowledge. It is said that it was at that moment that Kali completely left the body of Nala.
Arrival in Vidarbha
It was near sunset. The residents of Vidarbha heard a terrifying rumbling sound. They looked out and found a chariot arriving at a tremendous speed. Everyone wondered who would be coming. Damayanti was expecting Nala and came out into the open terrace of the palace to observe whether her dear husband finally arrived. She found the king, Rituparna, stepping out. The charioteer who sat in front also stepped down. He looked ugly and shabbily dressed and bore no resemblance to her handsome Nala.
Who was he? The sound of the chariot was exactly as though Nala, himself, was at the reins. But, who is this ugly man? Was it possible that Nala taught him his secret knowledge of horses? She decided to find out and sent her maid to the charioteer.
King Bhima surprised
The Vidarbha king wondered what would have brought Rituparna to his land. After receiving the king courteously Bhima asked his host what could be his mission.
Rituparna was equally confused. The Swayamwara was supposed to be the very next day. That was why he impressed upon his charioteer to use all his skill and reach the land of Vidarbha in such a hurry. But, he found no sign of any wedding arrangements. Nor did he find any other king at the palace. It would be highly embarrassing, if there was any confusion about the invitation he received. So, he replied that it was just a courtesy call on his part.
The Vidarbha king was even more puzzled with that reply. A mere courtesy call by some one from a distance of eight hundred miles! But, he outwardly showed no signs of surprise and lead Rituparna to a quarter of the palace that was hurriedly arranged for his comfortable stay.
Damayanti’s tests
Meanwhile, the maid sent by Damayanti accosted the charioteer, Bahuka. She repeated the words of Damayanti addressing her husband why he left her all alone in the forest. Bahuka shed tears and repeated the same words which he spoke earlier in reply to that question.
Damayanti’s suspicion grew stronger this time. She wanted to test the charioteer further. She knew some of the gifts of Nala that no other human beings could perform. Only raw meat and vegetables were supplied for dinner for the visitors. Damayanti made sure that there was no fire in the kitchen to cook the food. There was no water either. The maid was asked to hide and watch what would happen next.
The maid was greatly surprised to find that the charioteer was nonplussed by not finding water and fire. He seemed to be in prayer for a while and water filled the cooking pots automatically. He prayed again facing the setting sun and fire lit the wood in the oven instantaneously. Several steaming and sweet smelling dishes were made ready in no time by the charioteer. The maid managed to bring some sample of the dishes to her mistress. Damayanti was certain after tasting them that the cook was none other than her husband.
As a final test she sent her children to the charioteer. He embraced them with tears flowing down his cheeks and took them into his lap.
Damayanti was by now sure that the charioteer was none other than Nala. But, how did he look so different? We shall learn about it in the next, concluding, part of the story.
Exchange of knowledge
The air rushed past him with such a force that the king found even breathing difficult. Suddenly, the garment which he wore around his chest flew off. He asked Bahuka to stop immediately so that he could fetch it. Bahuka said, “Your Excellency! Your garment is behind us by eight or ten miles by now”.
Rituparna was thrilled finding his horses galloping at unbelievable speed. He wanted to impress Bahuka with his own learning. He said. “Bahuka, look at that tree far in front of us. I can tell you exactly how many leaves it has”. Then, he gave the number. He asked Bahuka to stop the chariot when they reached near it. When they stopped the king said. “Now you break that particular branch and count the leaves on it. You multiply what you get by the number of branches. You shall arrive at my figure”. Bahuka was surprised that the king was absolutely right. He wanted to learn how he did it. In exchange he promised to teach the king his knowledge of horses.
Rituparna said. “I did my calculation using the science called Akshahridaya or the secret of dice. I shall teach you also how you can apply it in the game of dice. Once you know the secret there will be none who can beat you in that game”. Nala was, no doubt, interested. He remembered the words of the serpent, Karkotaka.
(Indian Statisticians observe that the principles of Statistics and Probability theory lie behind the science of dice as king Rituparna stated it. It is the basic theory of averages which the king applied. Of course, the theory of Probability plays a big role in the game of dice).
Bahuka started the chariot with renewed speed. The two, king and his charioteer, then taught each other their respective area of knowledge. It is said that it was at that moment that Kali completely left the body of Nala.
Arrival in Vidarbha
It was near sunset. The residents of Vidarbha heard a terrifying rumbling sound. They looked out and found a chariot arriving at a tremendous speed. Everyone wondered who would be coming. Damayanti was expecting Nala and came out into the open terrace of the palace to observe whether her dear husband finally arrived. She found the king, Rituparna, stepping out. The charioteer who sat in front also stepped down. He looked ugly and shabbily dressed and bore no resemblance to her handsome Nala.
Who was he? The sound of the chariot was exactly as though Nala, himself, was at the reins. But, who is this ugly man? Was it possible that Nala taught him his secret knowledge of horses? She decided to find out and sent her maid to the charioteer.
King Bhima surprised
The Vidarbha king wondered what would have brought Rituparna to his land. After receiving the king courteously Bhima asked his host what could be his mission.
Rituparna was equally confused. The Swayamwara was supposed to be the very next day. That was why he impressed upon his charioteer to use all his skill and reach the land of Vidarbha in such a hurry. But, he found no sign of any wedding arrangements. Nor did he find any other king at the palace. It would be highly embarrassing, if there was any confusion about the invitation he received. So, he replied that it was just a courtesy call on his part.
The Vidarbha king was even more puzzled with that reply. A mere courtesy call by some one from a distance of eight hundred miles! But, he outwardly showed no signs of surprise and lead Rituparna to a quarter of the palace that was hurriedly arranged for his comfortable stay.
Damayanti’s tests
Meanwhile, the maid sent by Damayanti accosted the charioteer, Bahuka. She repeated the words of Damayanti addressing her husband why he left her all alone in the forest. Bahuka shed tears and repeated the same words which he spoke earlier in reply to that question.
Damayanti’s suspicion grew stronger this time. She wanted to test the charioteer further. She knew some of the gifts of Nala that no other human beings could perform. Only raw meat and vegetables were supplied for dinner for the visitors. Damayanti made sure that there was no fire in the kitchen to cook the food. There was no water either. The maid was asked to hide and watch what would happen next.
The maid was greatly surprised to find that the charioteer was nonplussed by not finding water and fire. He seemed to be in prayer for a while and water filled the cooking pots automatically. He prayed again facing the setting sun and fire lit the wood in the oven instantaneously. Several steaming and sweet smelling dishes were made ready in no time by the charioteer. The maid managed to bring some sample of the dishes to her mistress. Damayanti was certain after tasting them that the cook was none other than her husband.
As a final test she sent her children to the charioteer. He embraced them with tears flowing down his cheeks and took them into his lap.
Damayanti was by now sure that the charioteer was none other than Nala. But, how did he look so different? We shall learn about it in the next, concluding, part of the story.
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Search for Damayanti
Bhima of Vidarbha was greatly worried hearing about the tragedy that sent his daughter and her husband into the forest. The king thought that the two must be suffering and roaming about in forests with no help in sight. The immediate task was, somehow, to trace them. So, he sent Brahmins in all directions with promise of generous rewards.
One of them was Sudeva, a friend of Damayanti’s brother. He reached the kingdom of Chedi and came upon the maid attending on the queen. The Brahmin found that her resemblance to Damayanti was particularly striking. She was as beautiful, but dressed modestly. Her looks were that of a woman in distress. After carefully weighing in various possibilities, the Brahmin decided to confront her directly.
He addressed her. “Daughter of king Bhima, I am Sudeva, your brother’s friend. I came looking for you as ordered by your father. Your parents, brother and children are all keeping well and are anxiously waiting for your return”.
Damayanti started weeping hearing those words. She, in turn, enquired about her children and all other relations.
Princess Sunanda thought it strange that her friend should be so much in tears after meeting a stranger. She reported the matter to her mother.
The queen came immediately where Damayanti was talking with the visiting Brahmin. She asked Sudeva whether he knew her earlier.
Back in Vidarbha
Sudeva told the queen all about Damayanti, her marriage to Nala and the tragedy which deprived the Nishadha king of his land. The queen was, no doubt, taken by surprise with the revelation. She was keeping a princess as her maid all along, though unwittingly. Besides, Damayanti was her direct niece, her mother being the queen’s sister. The queen embraced her niece with the new found relationship.
Damayanti then took leave of the queen and her friend, Sunanda. She accompanied the Brahmin and reached her father’s palace in due course. Every one in the palace was happy beyond words to receive her. They all shared her grief when Damayanti narrated how she suffered in various forests and how fortunate she was to escape to Chedi palace.
In search of Nala
Damayanti , then, told her parents that she did not want to live long without Nala. Hearing those words, her mother wept and kept quiet. The king issued fresh orders for the Brahmins to renew the search for Nala.
Damayanti, somehow, sensed that Nala might not identify himself to strangers. So, she left a message with the Brahmins addressed to Nala. “You disappeared with half the piece of cloth I was wearing. You left me behind, helpless, while I was asleep in deep forest. You know what is right and what is wrong. Is it not the duty of a husband to look after his wife? Remember, your wife and children are awaiting your return”. Damayanti asked the Brahmins to repeat those very words in all public places wherever they go.
Just a hint
After a few days, one of the Brahmins returned from Ayodhya and reported a strange encounter there. He repeated the same words in the court of Rituparna. Neither the king nor those who were assembled spoke anything in reply. But, when he came out the charioteer of Rituparna approached him privately. He did not at all fit the description of Nala. On the contrary, he looked positively ugly. But, he appeared to be deeply in sorrow. He said. “Is it not the duty of a chaste wife to bear all shortcomings of her husband? If her husband happened to leave her and go, because of some misfortune, she should not get angry on him”.
Damayanti was certain that the person who spoke those words was certainly Nala. How he managed to change his own identity was a puzzle. She was determined to bring him out of his hiding. There must be a clever device to entice him to come into the open. She took her mother into confidence in the matter. Damayanti requested her mother not to let even her father know of their plan.
A second marriage
Damayanti made a mental calculation that an expert like Nala, and only one like him, would reach the Vidarbha palace from Ayodhya in a day by chariot. With this in mind she made a plan. She asked Sudeva, her brother’s friend, to take an invitation personally to Rituparna. But, this was done in complete secrecy, even without telling her own mother. The message said that Damayanti wanted to marry again as her first husband was not to be traced anywhere. It would be a Swayamwara like before. Naturally, no other kings were invited.
Rituparna was excited hearing the good news. He had heard about the exceptional beauty of Damayanti. There might be other suitors. But, time was short. Many would find it hard to reach the Swayamwara with such a short notice. But, he had confidence in his charioteer, Bahuka. So, with high hopes he asked the charioteer to start immediately.
Bahuka’s mind was in turmoil hearing that his wife was going to marry again. He thought. “True, I cheated her. She must have left all hopes of finding me later. Yet, how could she do this to me?” Outwardly, Bahuka was pleased with the news and was ready to start immediately.
He went to the stable and chose four horses of the best breed and of the most agile. The king was greatly angered looking at the lean horses. There were many others which were healthier. But, Bahuka assured him that those horses would take him to his destination in time.
We shall learn about their journey in the next episode.
One of them was Sudeva, a friend of Damayanti’s brother. He reached the kingdom of Chedi and came upon the maid attending on the queen. The Brahmin found that her resemblance to Damayanti was particularly striking. She was as beautiful, but dressed modestly. Her looks were that of a woman in distress. After carefully weighing in various possibilities, the Brahmin decided to confront her directly.
He addressed her. “Daughter of king Bhima, I am Sudeva, your brother’s friend. I came looking for you as ordered by your father. Your parents, brother and children are all keeping well and are anxiously waiting for your return”.
Damayanti started weeping hearing those words. She, in turn, enquired about her children and all other relations.
Princess Sunanda thought it strange that her friend should be so much in tears after meeting a stranger. She reported the matter to her mother.
The queen came immediately where Damayanti was talking with the visiting Brahmin. She asked Sudeva whether he knew her earlier.
Back in Vidarbha
Sudeva told the queen all about Damayanti, her marriage to Nala and the tragedy which deprived the Nishadha king of his land. The queen was, no doubt, taken by surprise with the revelation. She was keeping a princess as her maid all along, though unwittingly. Besides, Damayanti was her direct niece, her mother being the queen’s sister. The queen embraced her niece with the new found relationship.
Damayanti then took leave of the queen and her friend, Sunanda. She accompanied the Brahmin and reached her father’s palace in due course. Every one in the palace was happy beyond words to receive her. They all shared her grief when Damayanti narrated how she suffered in various forests and how fortunate she was to escape to Chedi palace.
In search of Nala
Damayanti , then, told her parents that she did not want to live long without Nala. Hearing those words, her mother wept and kept quiet. The king issued fresh orders for the Brahmins to renew the search for Nala.
Damayanti, somehow, sensed that Nala might not identify himself to strangers. So, she left a message with the Brahmins addressed to Nala. “You disappeared with half the piece of cloth I was wearing. You left me behind, helpless, while I was asleep in deep forest. You know what is right and what is wrong. Is it not the duty of a husband to look after his wife? Remember, your wife and children are awaiting your return”. Damayanti asked the Brahmins to repeat those very words in all public places wherever they go.
Just a hint
After a few days, one of the Brahmins returned from Ayodhya and reported a strange encounter there. He repeated the same words in the court of Rituparna. Neither the king nor those who were assembled spoke anything in reply. But, when he came out the charioteer of Rituparna approached him privately. He did not at all fit the description of Nala. On the contrary, he looked positively ugly. But, he appeared to be deeply in sorrow. He said. “Is it not the duty of a chaste wife to bear all shortcomings of her husband? If her husband happened to leave her and go, because of some misfortune, she should not get angry on him”.
Damayanti was certain that the person who spoke those words was certainly Nala. How he managed to change his own identity was a puzzle. She was determined to bring him out of his hiding. There must be a clever device to entice him to come into the open. She took her mother into confidence in the matter. Damayanti requested her mother not to let even her father know of their plan.
A second marriage
Damayanti made a mental calculation that an expert like Nala, and only one like him, would reach the Vidarbha palace from Ayodhya in a day by chariot. With this in mind she made a plan. She asked Sudeva, her brother’s friend, to take an invitation personally to Rituparna. But, this was done in complete secrecy, even without telling her own mother. The message said that Damayanti wanted to marry again as her first husband was not to be traced anywhere. It would be a Swayamwara like before. Naturally, no other kings were invited.
Rituparna was excited hearing the good news. He had heard about the exceptional beauty of Damayanti. There might be other suitors. But, time was short. Many would find it hard to reach the Swayamwara with such a short notice. But, he had confidence in his charioteer, Bahuka. So, with high hopes he asked the charioteer to start immediately.
Bahuka’s mind was in turmoil hearing that his wife was going to marry again. He thought. “True, I cheated her. She must have left all hopes of finding me later. Yet, how could she do this to me?” Outwardly, Bahuka was pleased with the news and was ready to start immediately.
He went to the stable and chose four horses of the best breed and of the most agile. The king was greatly angered looking at the lean horses. There were many others which were healthier. But, Bahuka assured him that those horses would take him to his destination in time.
We shall learn about their journey in the next episode.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Damayanti finds refuge
Damayanti reached the palace of Chedi in the company of Brahmins of the caravan. By then, even the single piece of cloth she wore was shabby and torn. Her whole body was covered with dust. Her matted and disheveled hair came down covering part of her face. No wonder that she was taken to be a mad woman by vagabonds on the road. By the time she reached the palace gate there was a group of urchins following her shouting “mad woman!”
The queen noticed the group from a distance. She was captivated by the serene beauty of Damayanti in spite of her appearance. She remarked to her maid. “Look at that woman coming in our direction. She moves like a mad woman, but, see how noble she looks in spite of her rags. Her radiance is such that it, as though, illuminates this palace. Go and get her to me immediately.”
Damayanti was duly brought to the august presence of the queen. The queen asked her in kind words who she was and why she moving about in that manner. The queen of Nishadha, then, told her story without revealing her royal birth and upbringing. She simply said that she was an attendant in the royal chambers (Sairandhri).
The queen said. “Fair one, do stay with me. You are of the age of my daughter, Sunanda. You will be a good companion to her.”
Damayanti was willing, but, on some conditions. “I shall not eat food left over from others meal and shall not do menial jobs. I shall not speak to any male members. Brahmins will be an exception. I may need their help to continue searching for my missing Nala.” The queen was gracious enough to let her stick to those rules.
Nala’s predicament
After leaving his wife Nala wandered here and there in the forest. He had no particular aim. Neither did he know where to turn for help.
Then, he observed that the forest right in front was being encircled by fire. He also heard some voice addressing him by name for help. What he found was a serpent coiled in the middle of the fast approaching fire that was calling out, “Nala, help me out!”
When he was near the serpent it spoke. “I am the king of serpents by name Karkotaka. I have lost my ability to move by a curse from sage Narada. I pleaded with him for pardon. Then, he made a concession that I would be free when you would come and save me. I beg you to carry me out of this death trap”.
Nala did not think twice and picked up Karkotaka and brought it out of the danger area. Karkotaka, then spoke. “I am indeed grateful to you. Please do me one more favour. Turn back and take a dozen steps.” Nala was puzzled, but, did as he was told. He was shocked when he was stung viciously on the ankle by the serpent. He turned blue in no time by the deadly poison of Karkotaka and thought that he was going to die the next instant. Then, he heard the serpent speak further.
“Please do not be afraid. My poison shall not affect you. I know that your body is haunted by Kali. He will find living inside your body unbearable henceforth because of my poison, and leave you. That is why I did this to you.”
Nala also found that the poison not only turned his colour black, but, also changed his appearance completely different. His handsome figure turned instantaneously into one with ugly features.
Karkotaka continued. “This change in you is not permanent. This will help you to live in disguise. Take this clothe as my gift. If you wear it, you will get back your old graceful features. Go to the king Rituparna of Ayodhya. You are the most proficient in the science of horses (Aswa Hridaya). You also have exceptional skills in cooking. Offer these skills in service to the king. In due course, you shall learn the science of dice (Aksha Hridaya) from him and win your lost kingdom back. You will also be re-joined by your dear queen. Because of my poison no other poison will have an effect on you in future.” So saying, the serpent, Karkotaka, disappeared.
Nala with Rituparna
Nala went to King Rituparna as asked. He called himself Bahuka and offered his services in cooking for the king and looking after his horses. The king was very pleased to learn that the visitor had special skills with horses. He found his charioteer wanting in that aspect. He was also happy to get a new cook. So, he employed Bahuka (Nala) in his kitchen and made him in the charge of his horses, too.
Bahuka started a new life in the palace of Ayodhya. Kali had left him completely by then. With his exit, thoughts of his dear wife rushed back to his mind tormenting him all the time.
Other servants found Bahuka lost in thoughts when left alone. They often heard him whispering in a sad tone. “Where will that dear one be living now, whom I left all alone, in hunger and thirst?” To their question, Bahuka once told them of his life’s story without revealing his identity.
We shall learn about the fate of Nala and Damayanti in the next episode.
The queen noticed the group from a distance. She was captivated by the serene beauty of Damayanti in spite of her appearance. She remarked to her maid. “Look at that woman coming in our direction. She moves like a mad woman, but, see how noble she looks in spite of her rags. Her radiance is such that it, as though, illuminates this palace. Go and get her to me immediately.”
Damayanti was duly brought to the august presence of the queen. The queen asked her in kind words who she was and why she moving about in that manner. The queen of Nishadha, then, told her story without revealing her royal birth and upbringing. She simply said that she was an attendant in the royal chambers (Sairandhri).
The queen said. “Fair one, do stay with me. You are of the age of my daughter, Sunanda. You will be a good companion to her.”
Damayanti was willing, but, on some conditions. “I shall not eat food left over from others meal and shall not do menial jobs. I shall not speak to any male members. Brahmins will be an exception. I may need their help to continue searching for my missing Nala.” The queen was gracious enough to let her stick to those rules.
Nala’s predicament
After leaving his wife Nala wandered here and there in the forest. He had no particular aim. Neither did he know where to turn for help.
Then, he observed that the forest right in front was being encircled by fire. He also heard some voice addressing him by name for help. What he found was a serpent coiled in the middle of the fast approaching fire that was calling out, “Nala, help me out!”
When he was near the serpent it spoke. “I am the king of serpents by name Karkotaka. I have lost my ability to move by a curse from sage Narada. I pleaded with him for pardon. Then, he made a concession that I would be free when you would come and save me. I beg you to carry me out of this death trap”.
Nala did not think twice and picked up Karkotaka and brought it out of the danger area. Karkotaka, then spoke. “I am indeed grateful to you. Please do me one more favour. Turn back and take a dozen steps.” Nala was puzzled, but, did as he was told. He was shocked when he was stung viciously on the ankle by the serpent. He turned blue in no time by the deadly poison of Karkotaka and thought that he was going to die the next instant. Then, he heard the serpent speak further.
“Please do not be afraid. My poison shall not affect you. I know that your body is haunted by Kali. He will find living inside your body unbearable henceforth because of my poison, and leave you. That is why I did this to you.”
Nala also found that the poison not only turned his colour black, but, also changed his appearance completely different. His handsome figure turned instantaneously into one with ugly features.
Karkotaka continued. “This change in you is not permanent. This will help you to live in disguise. Take this clothe as my gift. If you wear it, you will get back your old graceful features. Go to the king Rituparna of Ayodhya. You are the most proficient in the science of horses (Aswa Hridaya). You also have exceptional skills in cooking. Offer these skills in service to the king. In due course, you shall learn the science of dice (Aksha Hridaya) from him and win your lost kingdom back. You will also be re-joined by your dear queen. Because of my poison no other poison will have an effect on you in future.” So saying, the serpent, Karkotaka, disappeared.
Nala with Rituparna
Nala went to King Rituparna as asked. He called himself Bahuka and offered his services in cooking for the king and looking after his horses. The king was very pleased to learn that the visitor had special skills with horses. He found his charioteer wanting in that aspect. He was also happy to get a new cook. So, he employed Bahuka (Nala) in his kitchen and made him in the charge of his horses, too.
Bahuka started a new life in the palace of Ayodhya. Kali had left him completely by then. With his exit, thoughts of his dear wife rushed back to his mind tormenting him all the time.
Other servants found Bahuka lost in thoughts when left alone. They often heard him whispering in a sad tone. “Where will that dear one be living now, whom I left all alone, in hunger and thirst?” To their question, Bahuka once told them of his life’s story without revealing his identity.
We shall learn about the fate of Nala and Damayanti in the next episode.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Damayanti’s escape
The gentle Damayanti was desolate in the terrifying forest where wild animals roamed freely. She had heard about ghosts of various kinds which lurked in darkness for their favourite dish of human flesh. Damayanti wailed, “my husband, who promised to be by my side until death, where are you now? How could you leave me all alone in this dense forest with no hope for escape?”
Caught by a python
Damayanti moved aimlessly here and there with her thoughts wandering in search of her missing Nala. Already terrified by her loneliness, she was horror stricken realizing that a python had grabbed her foot and was slowly sucking her into its mouth. She started crying aloud for help, repeating the name, “Nala”. Luckily, a hunter happened to hear her and came rushing. He slit the python from head to tail and saved Dmayanti from her agony.
But, worse was in store for the hapless queen. The hunter was enchanted by the enchanting looks of the lady whom he happened to save. Desire provoked the primitive man to draw Damayanti to himself in spite of her protests. The queen of Nishadha was terrified at first. Fear changed to anger when her objections were ignored. She had led so chaste a life that she never even thought about any other man in her life. That gave her the courage to curse her tormentor with the words, “you have violated my person by your mere touch. May you perish this very instant by the power of my chastity”. As soon as she those words were spoken, as though by a miracle, the hunter fell down dead.
Seen Nala ?
Escape from the mouth of the python and from the clutches of the hunter did not end Damayanti’s misery. Where was Nala? Where to look for him? Who to ask in that desolate forest?
She went from tree to tree and from mountain to streams looking for Nala. When tired she would sit on a rock and continue wailing about him. She would imagine his handsome figure and think of his noble qualities. Will she ever set eyes on him again?
She found a tiger passing by. By then she had turned almost mad in mind even to be aware of fear. She addressed the tiger, “you have been wandering all through the forest. Have you found my loving husband?”
Getting no reply she approached a mountain with a tall peak. “You are standing tall in this forest. You see far and wide from where you stand. Did you notice my Nala passing by?” She next asked a stream whether it passed by the Naishadha in its wanderings through the forest.
Words of hope
Damayanti searched for days after days for Nala who left her without a word. Then, she located a hermitage not far away in front. All her sufferings and fear vanished finding the place where saints meditated in tranquility. Peace loving animals grazed in the surroundings. A gentle stream flowed near by.
Damayanti prostrated before the hermits. They received her with all kindness and asked her who she was and why she was moving all alone in the forest. Damayanti introduced herself and narrated how she ended up in the forest with her husband. Now her husband is missing. She spoke not even a word blaming her husband for her predicament.
The sages then spoke consoling her. “Fair lady, do not worry about your future. You will soon get over all your present troubles. You will meet your husband and he will regain his lost kingdom. We foresee all that through the power of our penance.” So speaking, the sages disappeared from sight with their hermitage and its surroundings, as though in a dream.
With a caravan
Damayanti continued her search, but, now with her mind at ease. But, she appeared like a mad person with her matted hair, torn piece of cloth and dust covered body. Soon, she came across a caravan of traders. They were travelling to the kingdom of Chedi (became famous later for Sisupala) to sell their precious commodity and buy fresh stock from there. Damayanti approached and told them all about herself and her misfortune. She wanted to know whether any one of them happened to meet her husband on the way. They had not, but, did not mind her joining them on their way to Chedi.
Damayanti thought that she could find refuge with the queen of Chedi and launch a search for Nala from there. Thinking so, she joined the group.
But, misfortune befell the caravan soon. They were riding several tame elephants carrying their goods. Attracted by the pachyderms, some wild elephants attacked the group from all sides. All their elephants were killed and even many of their members were crushed by the invading mammals. The surviving traders thought that Damayanti was a devil who invited disaster to their company. So, they left her behind and moved on. Luckily, there were a few Brahmins in the group who felt pity and took her with them to the kingdom of Chedi.
We shall continue with her life at Chedi in the next episode.
Caught by a python
Damayanti moved aimlessly here and there with her thoughts wandering in search of her missing Nala. Already terrified by her loneliness, she was horror stricken realizing that a python had grabbed her foot and was slowly sucking her into its mouth. She started crying aloud for help, repeating the name, “Nala”. Luckily, a hunter happened to hear her and came rushing. He slit the python from head to tail and saved Dmayanti from her agony.
But, worse was in store for the hapless queen. The hunter was enchanted by the enchanting looks of the lady whom he happened to save. Desire provoked the primitive man to draw Damayanti to himself in spite of her protests. The queen of Nishadha was terrified at first. Fear changed to anger when her objections were ignored. She had led so chaste a life that she never even thought about any other man in her life. That gave her the courage to curse her tormentor with the words, “you have violated my person by your mere touch. May you perish this very instant by the power of my chastity”. As soon as she those words were spoken, as though by a miracle, the hunter fell down dead.
Seen Nala ?
Escape from the mouth of the python and from the clutches of the hunter did not end Damayanti’s misery. Where was Nala? Where to look for him? Who to ask in that desolate forest?
She went from tree to tree and from mountain to streams looking for Nala. When tired she would sit on a rock and continue wailing about him. She would imagine his handsome figure and think of his noble qualities. Will she ever set eyes on him again?
She found a tiger passing by. By then she had turned almost mad in mind even to be aware of fear. She addressed the tiger, “you have been wandering all through the forest. Have you found my loving husband?”
Getting no reply she approached a mountain with a tall peak. “You are standing tall in this forest. You see far and wide from where you stand. Did you notice my Nala passing by?” She next asked a stream whether it passed by the Naishadha in its wanderings through the forest.
Words of hope
Damayanti searched for days after days for Nala who left her without a word. Then, she located a hermitage not far away in front. All her sufferings and fear vanished finding the place where saints meditated in tranquility. Peace loving animals grazed in the surroundings. A gentle stream flowed near by.
Damayanti prostrated before the hermits. They received her with all kindness and asked her who she was and why she was moving all alone in the forest. Damayanti introduced herself and narrated how she ended up in the forest with her husband. Now her husband is missing. She spoke not even a word blaming her husband for her predicament.
The sages then spoke consoling her. “Fair lady, do not worry about your future. You will soon get over all your present troubles. You will meet your husband and he will regain his lost kingdom. We foresee all that through the power of our penance.” So speaking, the sages disappeared from sight with their hermitage and its surroundings, as though in a dream.
With a caravan
Damayanti continued her search, but, now with her mind at ease. But, she appeared like a mad person with her matted hair, torn piece of cloth and dust covered body. Soon, she came across a caravan of traders. They were travelling to the kingdom of Chedi (became famous later for Sisupala) to sell their precious commodity and buy fresh stock from there. Damayanti approached and told them all about herself and her misfortune. She wanted to know whether any one of them happened to meet her husband on the way. They had not, but, did not mind her joining them on their way to Chedi.
Damayanti thought that she could find refuge with the queen of Chedi and launch a search for Nala from there. Thinking so, she joined the group.
But, misfortune befell the caravan soon. They were riding several tame elephants carrying their goods. Attracted by the pachyderms, some wild elephants attacked the group from all sides. All their elephants were killed and even many of their members were crushed by the invading mammals. The surviving traders thought that Damayanti was a devil who invited disaster to their company. So, they left her behind and moved on. Luckily, there were a few Brahmins in the group who felt pity and took her with them to the kingdom of Chedi.
We shall continue with her life at Chedi in the next episode.
Monday, February 19, 2007
Testing Times
Nala was very pleased that Damayanti chose him even over the gods. He promised that he would take good care of her as long as he lived. The Vidarbha king, Bhima conducted the marriage of his daughter with the Naishadha with great festivities. Every one thought that the two found perfect match in one another. The two lead blissful married life for about twelve years. Meanwhile, Damayanti gave birth to a son and a daughter.
Trouble ahead
Kali, personification of evils, had not forgotten what he took as an insult at the Swayamvara. He could not forgive Nala for denying him the chance to marry Damayanti. He would have tolerated, if the princess chose Indra or one of the other suitors from heaven. He left the meeting of gods swearing revenge on Nala. The gods warned both Kali and Dwapara not to cause any harm to Nala. He was blameless in all respects. They would be inviting trouble, if they provoked Nala to put a curse on themselves.
But, Kali was so obsessed with thoughts of revenge that he ignored all warnings. What he needed now was just an opportunity to haunt the body and mind of the king. The Naishadha lived a life of such purity in thought and deeds that he never made a slip for Kali to go anywhere near him.
Then, one day, the chance came. Nala was in a hurry and forgot to follow some of the strict rules of cleanliness before performing the daily ritual of chanting the Gayatri Mantra. That was the opportunity Kali was looking for and he haunted the king, in body and mind.
Next, Kali approached Nala’s brother, Pushkara. He promised the young prince that he would help him to grab the entire kingdom from his brother, Nala. Pushkara simply had to invite his elder brother for a game of dice. Kali had a way to haunt the dice such that it would always turn up against the fortune of the king.
The tragic game
Pushkara was tempted. He went and challenged his brother for a game. The effect of Kali in him made Nala to forget the dangers ahead. He accepted the challenge and the two started playing.
Nala started staking his gold, palaces and chariots. He lost them one by to Pushkara. Kali made sure that the losses made Nala more spirited to play on. Damayanti sensed trouble and pleaded with her husband to give up. Nala would not listen to her. His ministers and even ordinary citizens were worried that their dear king was losing all sense of right and wrong. They came all together to dissuade the king. Nala did not even bother to meet them.
Safe custody for the children
The game went on for days and nights without end. Only the two, Nala and Pushkara, remained in the room with their dice. Everyone else had left Nala to his own fate. Every move ended in Nala losing more. He was more and more in despair, but, so obsessed with the game that he would never give up. Damayanti would go and watch for a while. Then, she would return with a sigh of despair. She lost interest in food. Sleep left her altogether.
She tried once again, in vain, to persuade her husband to give up with the help of ministers. Then, she decided that it was time that she left the children in safe custody. She called the charioteer and asked him to take the children to her father.
The exile
Nala lost everything in due course. Pushkara tried to provoke Nala further. “You are now only left with your wife. If you dare, stake her and play.” The king simply got up and left the palace wearing a single piece of cloth. Damayanti also followed him wearing just the dress she had on her. Everything else was staked and lost to Pushkara. The two left the palace at night.
Pushkara had issued a warning to all citizens that if anyone offered help of any sort to Nala the offender would be put to death. So, nobody dared to offer even shelter to their beloved king and queen.
The couple spent three days in the outskirts of the palace with no food except for water, and sleeping on the ground. Then, they moved to a forest nearby, thinking that they would at least find some fruit for survival.
Nala tried to persuade Damayanti to go to her father. She would not think of leaving her husband in that condition.
Even that single piece of cloth
After a few days, hunger became unbearable to the couple. Food was not easy to collect. One day Nala found a few birds on the ground in the forest pecking food. He thought that they would survive for a few days with their meat. He tried to cast a net over the birds with his only piece of cloth. The birds, suddenly, rose all together carrying his cloth with them. Nala was left completely naked. He had to tear the only piece Damayanti was wearing into two and use one half to cover his own nakedness.
Damayanti abandoned
The two travelled long distances in the forest in search of food and shelter. They found nothing for days together. One night Damayanti was in deep sleep with exhaustion. Nala remained awake thinking about his fate and that of his wife. He reasoned that she was suffering on his account. If left alone, she might return to her parents and thus escape from further suffering. Kali continued to blur his thinking and prompted him to leave his sleeping wife behind. He prayed to gods to protect his innocent wife and disappeared.
Damayanti in distress
Damayanti woke up next morning and missed her husband. Had he left early in the morning looking for food without telling her? She started calling him, first softly and then aloud. She could hear only her own voice as echoed by the distant hills. She, then, started moving here and there looking frantically searching for him.
Let us leave the two in their separate ways for now and learn more in the next episode.
Trouble ahead
Kali, personification of evils, had not forgotten what he took as an insult at the Swayamvara. He could not forgive Nala for denying him the chance to marry Damayanti. He would have tolerated, if the princess chose Indra or one of the other suitors from heaven. He left the meeting of gods swearing revenge on Nala. The gods warned both Kali and Dwapara not to cause any harm to Nala. He was blameless in all respects. They would be inviting trouble, if they provoked Nala to put a curse on themselves.
But, Kali was so obsessed with thoughts of revenge that he ignored all warnings. What he needed now was just an opportunity to haunt the body and mind of the king. The Naishadha lived a life of such purity in thought and deeds that he never made a slip for Kali to go anywhere near him.
Then, one day, the chance came. Nala was in a hurry and forgot to follow some of the strict rules of cleanliness before performing the daily ritual of chanting the Gayatri Mantra. That was the opportunity Kali was looking for and he haunted the king, in body and mind.
Next, Kali approached Nala’s brother, Pushkara. He promised the young prince that he would help him to grab the entire kingdom from his brother, Nala. Pushkara simply had to invite his elder brother for a game of dice. Kali had a way to haunt the dice such that it would always turn up against the fortune of the king.
The tragic game
Pushkara was tempted. He went and challenged his brother for a game. The effect of Kali in him made Nala to forget the dangers ahead. He accepted the challenge and the two started playing.
Nala started staking his gold, palaces and chariots. He lost them one by to Pushkara. Kali made sure that the losses made Nala more spirited to play on. Damayanti sensed trouble and pleaded with her husband to give up. Nala would not listen to her. His ministers and even ordinary citizens were worried that their dear king was losing all sense of right and wrong. They came all together to dissuade the king. Nala did not even bother to meet them.
Safe custody for the children
The game went on for days and nights without end. Only the two, Nala and Pushkara, remained in the room with their dice. Everyone else had left Nala to his own fate. Every move ended in Nala losing more. He was more and more in despair, but, so obsessed with the game that he would never give up. Damayanti would go and watch for a while. Then, she would return with a sigh of despair. She lost interest in food. Sleep left her altogether.
She tried once again, in vain, to persuade her husband to give up with the help of ministers. Then, she decided that it was time that she left the children in safe custody. She called the charioteer and asked him to take the children to her father.
The exile
Nala lost everything in due course. Pushkara tried to provoke Nala further. “You are now only left with your wife. If you dare, stake her and play.” The king simply got up and left the palace wearing a single piece of cloth. Damayanti also followed him wearing just the dress she had on her. Everything else was staked and lost to Pushkara. The two left the palace at night.
Pushkara had issued a warning to all citizens that if anyone offered help of any sort to Nala the offender would be put to death. So, nobody dared to offer even shelter to their beloved king and queen.
The couple spent three days in the outskirts of the palace with no food except for water, and sleeping on the ground. Then, they moved to a forest nearby, thinking that they would at least find some fruit for survival.
Nala tried to persuade Damayanti to go to her father. She would not think of leaving her husband in that condition.
Even that single piece of cloth
After a few days, hunger became unbearable to the couple. Food was not easy to collect. One day Nala found a few birds on the ground in the forest pecking food. He thought that they would survive for a few days with their meat. He tried to cast a net over the birds with his only piece of cloth. The birds, suddenly, rose all together carrying his cloth with them. Nala was left completely naked. He had to tear the only piece Damayanti was wearing into two and use one half to cover his own nakedness.
Damayanti abandoned
The two travelled long distances in the forest in search of food and shelter. They found nothing for days together. One night Damayanti was in deep sleep with exhaustion. Nala remained awake thinking about his fate and that of his wife. He reasoned that she was suffering on his account. If left alone, she might return to her parents and thus escape from further suffering. Kali continued to blur his thinking and prompted him to leave his sleeping wife behind. He prayed to gods to protect his innocent wife and disappeared.
Damayanti in distress
Damayanti woke up next morning and missed her husband. Had he left early in the morning looking for food without telling her? She started calling him, first softly and then aloud. She could hear only her own voice as echoed by the distant hills. She, then, started moving here and there looking frantically searching for him.
Let us leave the two in their separate ways for now and learn more in the next episode.
Sunday, February 18, 2007
The story of Nala
Introduction
Vyasa at this stage narrates the celebrated story of Nala in more than 1000 stanzas (4000 lines) of poetry. One sage by name Brihadasva visits the Pandavas in the forest while Arjuna was away in search of weapons. Yudhishthira laments about his fate resulting from the game of dice. He asks the sage whether he has ever heard of a worse tragedy. In reply Brihadasva narrates the story of Nala. It has no other relevance to the main story of Mahabharatam. But, the story in itself is very touching and is one of the most widely known among Indian epics. It is quoted in some of the Vedic literature pointing out its antiquity. One of the five great classics in Sanskrit poetry, “Naishadham” by Sriharsha, is based on this story. Kathakali has one of the most popular plays on this. Hence, it may be worthwhile going into it, probably in five or six episodes.
There are four epochs (Yuga) in traditional Indian knowledge. They are, Kruta, Treta, Dwapara and Kali. Presiding deities of the last two appear in the story. It is said that moral decay gradually takes place as time passes to the second, third and fourth epochs. Kali Yuga is considered to be the period in which it reaches the climax. The four epochs repeat themselves in cycles until the great deluge put an end to creation.
There is enough reason to believe that we are in the sixth millennium after Kali set in. Krishna was born towards the end of Dwapara. The Mahabharata war took place in the beginning of Kali. It is said that great calamities befell on the earth whenever a new epoch set in.
The character Dwapara in the story has a passive role, merely that of an onlooker. Kali plays an active and evil role, consistent with the character of the epoch he represents.
The kingdom, Vidarbha, in the story is part of modern Maharashra. Nishadha of Nala is believed to be adjacent to it, probably to the north.
Brihadasva starts the narration with the birth of Nala.
Birth of Nala and Damayanti
There was a king of the Nishadha by name Virasena. He had a son who was named Nala. The prince was extremely handsome and became well known for his excellent character, learning and skill in warfare.
King Bhima ruled the land of Vidarbha at that time. He had a daughter by name Damayanti. She had all that one looked for in a woman, beauty, accomplishments and strength of character.
Nala grew up hearing about the qualities of Damayanti in the court of Nishadha. Gradually, soft feelings developed in the heart of the prince towards the Vidarbha princess. Similarly, Damayanti also used to hear about the handsome Nishadha prince and his accomplishments. Bhaimi (the daughter of Bhima) kept thinking of Nala right from hr childhood.
An Unusual go-between
Nala one day found several golden swans of astonishing beauty in the palace lake. He took a fancy to catch a few and managed to get hold of one. To his surprise he heard the swan speaking to him in human voice.
“Prince of Nishadha, what do you gain by keeping me in bondage? If I am set free, I may be of some service to you!”.
Nala asked, out of curiosity, “in what way?”.
The swan said. “There is a beautiful princess by name Damayanti in the land of Vidarbha. I shall go and talk to her in such a way that she would fall for you with all her heart”.
Of course, Nala was interested. He set the bird free.
The swan with Damayanti
In the garden of the Vidarbha palace the swans had a motive. They moved with special grace inviting the attention of the princess and her maids. It took no effort for the Bhaimi (Damayanti) to catch the most beautiful of the lot, the messenger from Nala. The princess was in all attention hearing the bird speak with human voice. It talked at length about the masculine grace of the Nishadha prince and of his exceptional character. What was merely a soft feeling in the heart of the princess for Nala now took firm root as deep love.
Damayanti struck with love sickness
Thoughts of her beloved obsessed the princess day and night. Gradually, she grew pale and thin. This was brought to the notice of Bhima, her father. The king thought that it was time that he got a handsome prince to marry his beautiful daughter. As was the custom, he wanted Damayanti to choose a prince of her choice (Swayamvara) from all those who would be invited.
Seekers from heaven
The marriage of Damayanti by Swayamvara was announced far and wide. Her fame was such that princes even from remote lands rushed to Vidarbha with hopes of winning her hands.
King Devendra (Indra) heard about the event from the wandering sage, Narada, in heaven. He talked about it with his colleagues, deities of the other directions, Agni (Fire, of the South East), Yama (South) and Varuna(West). All wanted to try their chances.
The gods meet Nala
Nala was on his way to the Vidarbha palace. He heard about the Swayamvara and had high hopes that his beloved would choose him. The golden swan would have accomplished the task as promised. He was thinking only about his sweet heart when he was interrupted in the middle by strangers. There were four of them. One spoke. “King of Nishadha, we need your help. You are famous for your word. Please promise that you will help us.”
Nala promised that he would do his best. Then, he asked, “who are you and what is my mission?”
The visitor spoke. “I am Indra. These are my friends from heaven, Agni, Yama and Varuna. We came seeking Damayanti’s hands in marriage. Please ask her to choose from one of us in the Swayamvara.”
Nala was in trouble. He replied. “This is unfair. I am already in love with the princess. I understand that she loves me, too. How can I ask her to marry one of you when our hearts desire otherwise?”
Indra said. “You cannot break your word given to us”
Nala asked, “how can I get to her, first of all, breaking through all the hurdles to the place where I can find her alone?”
The god replied that with his blessing he would accomplish just that.
Nala alone with Damayanti
Nala was surprised that he could enter all the way into Damayanti’s chambers without anyone blocking his way. Damayanti was pleasantly surprised to see her beloved in person alone in her front. Nala, then, conveyed the message from the divinities to her. Damayanti protested. “How is this possible? My heart is already given to you.” Nala tried to persuade her pointing out how better she would be as wife to a god as against being a queen to an ordinary mortal king. But, Damayanti stood firm in her resolve. She said. “Bowing to all gods, I shall choose you as husband”.
The Swayamvara
The time for Swayamvara came. Rulers from all known kingdoms were seated in suitably decorated thrones in the hall. Damayanti was lead by her maidens one by one in front of each of the suitors. Ignoring everyone else she proceeded ahead looking for her beloved. Then she was arrested by an unexpected sight. There was Nala right in front, not one, but five of them. All looked exactly alike. She remembered the message Nala carried to her from the heavenly suitors and decided that they must be putting her to test. She closed her eyes in prayer directed to the same Indra, Agni, Yama and Varuna.
When she opened her eyes she found a slight difference among the five Nalas. Four of them did not quite touch the ground where they stood. They stood blinking, without closing their eye lashes. They did not sweat at all and no dust would settle on them. Damayanti remembered that these are the qualities of divinity. She, in that way, could make out the real Nala. She gently placed the garland around his neck.
Gods’ blessing
The four gods were pleased that Nala had kept his word. They were also impressed with Damayanti that she did not waver in her mind even in their presence. So, they blessed the couple, especially Nala for help at appropriate time, and disappeared.
The angry suitors
Kali and Dwapara arrived too late for the Swayamvara. They had designs of winning the princess. It was from the returning gods that they heard that Damayanti already chose Nala as husband. They were disappointed. Kali was furious. How did Nala dare to carry the princess off when the likes of Indra came for her? He wanted to teach Nala a lesson for his impunity.
We shall learn about it in the next episode
Vyasa at this stage narrates the celebrated story of Nala in more than 1000 stanzas (4000 lines) of poetry. One sage by name Brihadasva visits the Pandavas in the forest while Arjuna was away in search of weapons. Yudhishthira laments about his fate resulting from the game of dice. He asks the sage whether he has ever heard of a worse tragedy. In reply Brihadasva narrates the story of Nala. It has no other relevance to the main story of Mahabharatam. But, the story in itself is very touching and is one of the most widely known among Indian epics. It is quoted in some of the Vedic literature pointing out its antiquity. One of the five great classics in Sanskrit poetry, “Naishadham” by Sriharsha, is based on this story. Kathakali has one of the most popular plays on this. Hence, it may be worthwhile going into it, probably in five or six episodes.
There are four epochs (Yuga) in traditional Indian knowledge. They are, Kruta, Treta, Dwapara and Kali. Presiding deities of the last two appear in the story. It is said that moral decay gradually takes place as time passes to the second, third and fourth epochs. Kali Yuga is considered to be the period in which it reaches the climax. The four epochs repeat themselves in cycles until the great deluge put an end to creation.
There is enough reason to believe that we are in the sixth millennium after Kali set in. Krishna was born towards the end of Dwapara. The Mahabharata war took place in the beginning of Kali. It is said that great calamities befell on the earth whenever a new epoch set in.
The character Dwapara in the story has a passive role, merely that of an onlooker. Kali plays an active and evil role, consistent with the character of the epoch he represents.
The kingdom, Vidarbha, in the story is part of modern Maharashra. Nishadha of Nala is believed to be adjacent to it, probably to the north.
Brihadasva starts the narration with the birth of Nala.
Birth of Nala and Damayanti
There was a king of the Nishadha by name Virasena. He had a son who was named Nala. The prince was extremely handsome and became well known for his excellent character, learning and skill in warfare.
King Bhima ruled the land of Vidarbha at that time. He had a daughter by name Damayanti. She had all that one looked for in a woman, beauty, accomplishments and strength of character.
Nala grew up hearing about the qualities of Damayanti in the court of Nishadha. Gradually, soft feelings developed in the heart of the prince towards the Vidarbha princess. Similarly, Damayanti also used to hear about the handsome Nishadha prince and his accomplishments. Bhaimi (the daughter of Bhima) kept thinking of Nala right from hr childhood.
An Unusual go-between
Nala one day found several golden swans of astonishing beauty in the palace lake. He took a fancy to catch a few and managed to get hold of one. To his surprise he heard the swan speaking to him in human voice.
“Prince of Nishadha, what do you gain by keeping me in bondage? If I am set free, I may be of some service to you!”.
Nala asked, out of curiosity, “in what way?”.
The swan said. “There is a beautiful princess by name Damayanti in the land of Vidarbha. I shall go and talk to her in such a way that she would fall for you with all her heart”.
Of course, Nala was interested. He set the bird free.
The swan with Damayanti
In the garden of the Vidarbha palace the swans had a motive. They moved with special grace inviting the attention of the princess and her maids. It took no effort for the Bhaimi (Damayanti) to catch the most beautiful of the lot, the messenger from Nala. The princess was in all attention hearing the bird speak with human voice. It talked at length about the masculine grace of the Nishadha prince and of his exceptional character. What was merely a soft feeling in the heart of the princess for Nala now took firm root as deep love.
Damayanti struck with love sickness
Thoughts of her beloved obsessed the princess day and night. Gradually, she grew pale and thin. This was brought to the notice of Bhima, her father. The king thought that it was time that he got a handsome prince to marry his beautiful daughter. As was the custom, he wanted Damayanti to choose a prince of her choice (Swayamvara) from all those who would be invited.
Seekers from heaven
The marriage of Damayanti by Swayamvara was announced far and wide. Her fame was such that princes even from remote lands rushed to Vidarbha with hopes of winning her hands.
King Devendra (Indra) heard about the event from the wandering sage, Narada, in heaven. He talked about it with his colleagues, deities of the other directions, Agni (Fire, of the South East), Yama (South) and Varuna(West). All wanted to try their chances.
The gods meet Nala
Nala was on his way to the Vidarbha palace. He heard about the Swayamvara and had high hopes that his beloved would choose him. The golden swan would have accomplished the task as promised. He was thinking only about his sweet heart when he was interrupted in the middle by strangers. There were four of them. One spoke. “King of Nishadha, we need your help. You are famous for your word. Please promise that you will help us.”
Nala promised that he would do his best. Then, he asked, “who are you and what is my mission?”
The visitor spoke. “I am Indra. These are my friends from heaven, Agni, Yama and Varuna. We came seeking Damayanti’s hands in marriage. Please ask her to choose from one of us in the Swayamvara.”
Nala was in trouble. He replied. “This is unfair. I am already in love with the princess. I understand that she loves me, too. How can I ask her to marry one of you when our hearts desire otherwise?”
Indra said. “You cannot break your word given to us”
Nala asked, “how can I get to her, first of all, breaking through all the hurdles to the place where I can find her alone?”
The god replied that with his blessing he would accomplish just that.
Nala alone with Damayanti
Nala was surprised that he could enter all the way into Damayanti’s chambers without anyone blocking his way. Damayanti was pleasantly surprised to see her beloved in person alone in her front. Nala, then, conveyed the message from the divinities to her. Damayanti protested. “How is this possible? My heart is already given to you.” Nala tried to persuade her pointing out how better she would be as wife to a god as against being a queen to an ordinary mortal king. But, Damayanti stood firm in her resolve. She said. “Bowing to all gods, I shall choose you as husband”.
The Swayamvara
The time for Swayamvara came. Rulers from all known kingdoms were seated in suitably decorated thrones in the hall. Damayanti was lead by her maidens one by one in front of each of the suitors. Ignoring everyone else she proceeded ahead looking for her beloved. Then she was arrested by an unexpected sight. There was Nala right in front, not one, but five of them. All looked exactly alike. She remembered the message Nala carried to her from the heavenly suitors and decided that they must be putting her to test. She closed her eyes in prayer directed to the same Indra, Agni, Yama and Varuna.
When she opened her eyes she found a slight difference among the five Nalas. Four of them did not quite touch the ground where they stood. They stood blinking, without closing their eye lashes. They did not sweat at all and no dust would settle on them. Damayanti remembered that these are the qualities of divinity. She, in that way, could make out the real Nala. She gently placed the garland around his neck.
Gods’ blessing
The four gods were pleased that Nala had kept his word. They were also impressed with Damayanti that she did not waver in her mind even in their presence. So, they blessed the couple, especially Nala for help at appropriate time, and disappeared.
The angry suitors
Kali and Dwapara arrived too late for the Swayamvara. They had designs of winning the princess. It was from the returning gods that they heard that Damayanti already chose Nala as husband. They were disappointed. Kali was furious. How did Nala dare to carry the princess off when the likes of Indra came for her? He wanted to teach Nala a lesson for his impunity.
We shall learn about it in the next episode
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)